Prevacid Lawsuit

There are more than 17,000 lawsuits related to Prevacid and other proton pump inhibitors. Plaintiffs claim the drug causes kidney failure and broken bones. Some users developed chronic kidney disease while taking Prevacid. Plaintiffs claim drug manufacturers failed to warn users of these dangerous side effects.

Why People are Filing Prevacid Lawsuits

Prevacid is a proton pump inhibitor (PPI). The drug uses active ingredient lansoprazole to treat conditions caused by too much stomach acid. Prevacid comes as a slow-release capsule or tablet taken once daily over the course of two weeks. The treatment can be repeated every four months, depending on the health condition. It is manufactured by Takeda Pharmaceuticals.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the drug in 1995.  It quickly grew in popularity - especially when an over-the-counter version (Prevacid 24HR)  was released in 2009.

In recent years, studies have demonstrated a link between the medication and severe health issues. On its label, Prevacid only warns consumers of some possible side effects:

• Diarrhea
• Abdominal pain
• Nausea
• Constipation
• Bone fracture
• Hypomagnesemia (low magnesium)

Recent studies have uncovered risks more serious than those listed on the label.

Prevacid and Kidney Problems

Most Prevacid and other PPI lawsuits have been filed due to short- and long-term chronic kidney diseases. Consumers have reported these side effects from prescription and over-the-counter Prevacid.

Numerous studies have linked Prevacid to an increased risk of certain kidney conditions. Astrazeneca's Nexium and Prilosec have also been linked to kidney risks. Consumers have reported a range of kidney injuries including interstitial nephritis and chronic kidney disease.

The Journal of the American Medical Association recently published a study on this topic. Researchers compared the risk of chronic kidney disease between PPI users and nonusers. Those using Prevacid and other PPIs had a 20 - 50% higher risk of chronic kidney disease.

A related study found that kidney injuries from Prevacid may not be limited short-term injury. Patients in the study had kidney problems that gradually worsened over time. In some patients, this led to chronic kidney disease and renal failure.

In instances of kidney or renal failure, patients may experience weakness or swelling. They may also experience high blood pressure or abnormal heart rhythms. The condition may be fatal unless the patient goes on dialysis or has a kidney transplant. Researchers urge doctors to closely monitor kidney function for all patients on Prevacid and similar medications. Vigilant monitoring is especially important for those who take the drug for a year or longer.

Other Health Risks of Taking Prevacid

Prevacid and its competitors have been linked to a number of other serious health problems. Further study is still needed to better understand these risks. But, there is enough evidence available to cause concern.

Prevacid and other PPIs have been linked to the following:

• Low magnesium levels
• An increased risk of gastric or stomach cancer
• A 21% increased risk of stroke and heart attacks
• An increased risk of spine, wrist and hip fractures

Prevacid's main ingredient, lansoprazole, has also been linked to several skin conditions. These include itching, rashes, and exfoliative dermatitis.

Researchers have also explored the possibility of sudden, early death from taking these drugs. One study compared patients taking PPIs to those taking an alternative drug, H2 blockers. Participants took these drugs for a period of one to two years. Researchers found a 50% increased risk of death within 5 years for those taking PPIs versus H2 blockers.

The researchers determined that for every 500 Prevacid users who took the drug for one year, one additional death would occur. This number may seem small, but millions of people take Prevacid and drugs like it. This increased risk could translate to thousands of preventable deaths each year.

Prevacid Health Risk News

May 13, 2020 | PPIs Linked to Kidney Disease Progression

Tulane University researchers investigated the link between PPIs, metabolic acidosis and declining kidney function. According the study authors:

• PPI users had a 45% higher risk of chronic kidney disease progression.
• PPI users may have a higher risk of metabolic acidosis.
• People with chronic kidney disease should not use PPIs

June 1, 2020 | PPIs Increase Fracture Risk in Children

Researchers examined pediatric health records to study the relationship between PPIs and fracture risk in children. Children exposed to PPIs had a 20% higher risk of fractures than those who had not taken PPIs. Children in the PPI group were also more likely to have leg, rib and spinal fractures than those in the control group.

Takeda Pharmaceutical's Negligence

As with many product liability lawsuits, plaintiffs have cited the manufacturer's negligence and false advertising. Some of the risks associated with these drugs stem from the difficulty doctors have in monitoring patients. PPI users need to take the medications as directed for the duration of treatment. But, generally, doctors only see patients for a few minutes when prescribing PPIs. Even so, part of the problem comes from doctors and patients alike not fully understanding the risks.

Many cases claim that Takeda should have done more testing of the drug. They also claim Takeda should have made the public more aware of these risks, especially for those who rely on the drug for a longer period of time.

Prevacid Lawsuits

Prevacid lawsuits, as well as other proton pump inhibitor lawsuits, have increased significantly in the past couple years. There are currently more than 13,000 lawsuits currently pending under MDL 2789 IN RE: Proton-Pump Inhibitor Products Liability Litigation (No. II).

MDL 2789 was formed in August 2017, transferring 161 lawsuits against proton pump inhibitors to the United States District Court of New Jersey. These cases are overseen by Judges Claire Cecchi and Mark Falk.

The first bellwether trial was set to begin in September 2020. However, the COVID-19 pandemic has slowed down many courts. Judge Cecchi has already made allowances for remote depositions, but additional changes are possible.

There have been class action lawsuits filed against AstraZeneca in regard to Nexium and Prilosec. But there are not currently any class action lawsuits filed against Prevacid.

Prevacid Lawsuit FAQ's

Am I Eligible to File a Prevacid Lawsuit?

If you or a loved one have taken Prevacid or Prevacid 24HR and experienced severe side effects like kidney disease or bone fractures, you may be eligible to file a claim. Submit a free case review and determine if you have a viable case.

What Compensation Can I Receive for a Prevacid Lawsuit?

You may be awarded damages for medical expenses related to your condition, pain and suffering, as well as funeral expenses for a family member's Prevacid-related death.

How Can I Pay for a Prevacid Lawyer?

Most of these cases are accepted on a contingency basis, meaning you won't need to pay any legal fee up front.